Susquehanna Style July 2023

To stay independent, planning ahead is essential. Your plan should include how and where you want to grow older. It should advocate for you, respect your choices and help you remain in your home, while staying healthy.

SmartLife VIA Willow Valley is designed to deliver high quality services and care wherever you call home. The program balances independence with life-long security. SmartLife delivers care coordination, companion services, personal care, and nursing care, all while safeguarding your assets from rising costs.

To learn how SmartLife allows you to stay in your own home, while benefiting from the security and support of a senior-living community, we invite you to attend an upcoming information session.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST SPA IN LANCASTER FOR THE 2ND YEAR IN A ROW!

For 10 years, Blossom Med Spa has been helping clients feel confident and beautiful in their own skin. We are incredibly lucky for this amazing community that has supported us from the very beginning. We are honored and thankful that you chose us as Best Spa. We will continue to strive to not only have the best education and technology, but also to continue to change lives as well as help people know their worth and beauty.

ALYSSA AND HER STAFF ARE SO ATTENTIVE, THEY MAKE YOU FEEL WELCOME, AND WHAT I LOVE THE MOST, IS THAT ALYSSA FIXED MY FACE. IT WENT FROM CHALKY AND SUPER DRY TO GLOWING AND RADIANT!

Buon Appetito

WITH THE ATMOSPHERE SET, the wine poured, and the food simmering to perfection—that’s how Lombardo’s has been sharing its Italian kitchen and heart with guests since 1946. As Lancaster City’s longest-standing restaurant, generations of talented chefs have passed down the Lombardo family’s signature recipes, continuing a rich legacy of Italian tradition and family-owned business.

Open Tuesday-Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Check our website for hours and to make a reservation. lombardosrestaurant.com

216 Harrisburg Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603 717.394.3749

Best Of Lancaster 2023

Welcome to our second of three Best Of issues where we recognize favorite businesses in the area as voted by you! This month, we proudly and excitedly announce the winners of our Best of Lancaster campaign—jump ahead to page 35 to see who’s on top.

In other exciting news, our annual Best of Susquehanna Style event is only about one month away (depending on when you’re reading this!). On Thursday, August 24 we invite you all to celebrate your favorite business in the area with food, beverages, camaraderie, and local entertainment, hosted by Wyndridge Farm in Dallastown. Tickets are limited and sold on a first come, first serve basis! Tickets available on our Best Of 2023 event page.

Aside from the thrill of Suquehanna Style Best Of winners and festivities, let’s dive right into other content we have to offer you this month. With the dog days of summer officially upon us, enjoy activities that cool you down and support businesses in Lancaster as we honor the winners in this region! Flip straight to Hot Summer Nights, on page 28, for our special edition of 5 things, where we explore five evening activities to enjoy out of the hot summer sun in Lancaster.

Looking for summer gear for your hot summer night on the town? Then check out our featured business in People & Places, Truth & Style, on page 12. And when you are spending time outside in the sun, don’t forget your sunscreen! In addition to sunscreen use, find more tips on protecting and enhancing your skin on page 16.

We’d like to thank our readers, local businesses, partners, and local freelance creatives—we appreciate all your support, and feel compelled to show our appreciation as we prepare to recognize all of you at our annual Best of Susquehanna Style event!

Theresa Stoddard Associate Publisher | tstoddard@susquehannastyle.com

PRESIDENT/CEO

Paul Prass

VICE PRESIDENT/COO

Lisa Prass

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Theresa Stoddard

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICES

Mike Matuczinski

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Kate Hunter, Sue Ottenheimer, Sherry Smith

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Madison Eckert

MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR

Madison DeWispelaere

CONTRIBUTORS

Rachel Curry, Karen Hendricks, Deborah Lynch, Maddy Pontz, Alysha Yoder

PHOTOGRAPHER

Karlo Gesner

PROOFREADER

Kate Pistone

ACCOUNTING

Donna Bachman, Sarah Varano

CONTACT US:

Editorial: Send your compliments, comments, story ideas, and suggestions to: Editor, Susquehanna Style (ISSN# 1540-0875), 202 Butler Avenue, Suite 102, Lancaster, PA 17601; or tstoddard@susquehannastyle.com.

Subscriptions and Backorders: For new subscriptions, changes of address, or questions about an existing subscription, call 800-896-1392, Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., EST. Annual subscriptions (11 issues/year) are $12. Postmaster please send returns to: Susquehanna Style, PO Box 293142, Kettering, OH 45429.

Advertising: To request a media kit or to receive other information on advertising, call 717-581-6550, fax 1-717-581-6552, or visit www.SusquehannaStyle.com.

Staff directory at www.SusquehannaStyle.com or call 717-581-6550.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH: © 2023

EVERLASTING SUMMER, EVERLASTING STYLE

Go behind the scenes with Truth and Style. Read more on page 12.

Lifestyle

THE TOWN OF

Schaefferstown

Located in Lebanon County, Schaefferstown is a quick drive away for any of us in the Susquehanna Valley. Plan a day or weekend trip away to enjoy the town’s rich history, beautiful hiking trails, quaint shopping, and local dining. The long days and warm weather make it the perfect time of year to add a visit to Schaefferstown to your summer itinerary!

BY THERESA STODDARD

LEBANON VALLEY RAIL TRAIL & CORNWALL TRAIL HEAD

Offering 15 miles of paved or packed trail that is suitable for bikes and strollers, The Lebanon Valley Rail Trail is a great option to explore the surrounding outdoors while getting some exercise. The Cornwall Trail Head is an entrance not far from Schaefferstown, making it a convenient addition to your plans. You’ll also find plenty of parking, a root beer stand selling cold drinks, and picnic seating. For more information about the trail and to view a map, visit TrailLink’s site by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.

119 Schaeffer Rd, Lebanon, PA traillink.com/trail/lebanon-valley-rail-trail/

HISTORIC SCHAEFFERSTOWN, INC.

Like many small towns across Pennsylvania, Schaefferstown takes pride in its unique culture and history. If that’s something you’d like to explore, visit Historic Schaefferstown, Inc, a non-profit organization that maintains multiple historic sites across town. You can plan a tour of the Alexander Schaeffer House and Farm or at the Gemberling-Rex House. The Thomas R. Brendle Museum is open for visits where you can see artifacts and 19th century crafts. Make sure you visit their website to learn about special events hosted on their grounds throughout the year.

111 N Market St, Schaefferstown, PA hsimuseum.org

THE FRANKLIN HOUSE TAVERN

Known for their wide variety of entrees, bistro fare, and house infused liquors, you can’t go wrong at The Franklin House Tavern! Be sure to make lunch or dinner plans at the tavern, where you can enjoy dining at the bar, in the dining room, and outside on the patio. In addition to a good meal, you can continue your educational journey as the site of The Franklin House Tavern is also rich with history.

101 N Market St, Schaefferstown, PA

Thefranklinhousetavern.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HISTORIC SCHAEFFERSTOWN, INC., LEBANON VALLEY RAIL TRAIL & CORNWALL TRAIL HEAD, THE FRANKLIN HOUSE TAVERN, AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE TRAIL, AND THE TWEED WEASEL FOLK ART & PRIMITIVES

AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE TRAIL

The African American Heritage Trail is the perfect guide to outdoor activity and American history local to Lebanon County. Not far from Schaefferstown, you can visit six sites along the trail that include Governor Dick Park in Mt Gretna, Cornwall Iron Furnace in Cornwall, Fort Indian Gap National Cemetery in Annville. or sites in Lebanon that include, St. John A.M.E. Church, Lebanon County Historical Society, and Light’s Fort. To learn more about each site in advance and to obtain a map of the African American Heritage Trail, go to Visit Lebanon Valley’s website.

Lebanon County, PA visitlebanonvalley.com/ african-american-heritage-trail

THE TWEED WEASEL FOLK ART & PRIMITIVES

If you’re looking for unique gifts, art, and home decor that’s unique and domestically created, The Tweed Weasel is the perfect stop. Offering folk art created by Tish & Michael, you’re sure to find something beautiful and different that speaks to you and inspires you. Art pieces range from ornaments, garden, patio, and outdoor decor to hooked work and wearables.

1148 Heidelberg Ave, Schaefferstown, PA thetweedweasel.com

Style Fun Summer

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER

NICOLE TAYLOR BOUTIQUE

BY RACHEL CURRY PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER

Everlasting Summer, Everlasting Style

MEET WENDY MARVEL, OWNER OF JEWELRY AND CLOTHING

BOUTIQUE TRUTH & STYLE IN LANCASTER

For Wendy Marvel, the summer season may pass, but the smiles, shine, and style that accompany it don’t have to.

Marvel is the owner of Truth & Style, a Lancaster-based boutique selling Brazilian jewelry and Colombian clothing. Her shop is teeming with jewelry of all kinds (it’s all hypoallergenic and mostly gold-laminated, but she also caters to silver lovers). Plus, her collection of wearable fashion prioritizes standing out in the best way possible, and she keeps the swimwear out all year long.

“I want every single person that comes into my store to be able to walk out with something they love,” says Marvel. She emphasizes the affordability of every piece, from studs to statement necklaces and beyond, showcasing how much she thinks about the accessibility of what she sells in addition to the aesthetics. The shop itself is bright, with an ever-evolving inventory for people to browse. However, it’s the inviting nature of Marvel herself that keeps people coming back. “I feed off connections,” she says, noting that getting to know other Hispanic women is especially fulfilling.

Marvel was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in the Dominican Republic before moving to America in 2004. A resident of Lititz, she has a master’s degree in counseling and is a mother of three children. She opened her King Street shop in downtown Lancaster in April 2022, mostly out of a need to manage her time and for a creative outlet.

Marvel was already selling jewelry prior to opening the shop, visiting hair salons and meeting up with people in their own homes to make connections and sales. “All of my customers literally became my friends,” she says. “I would go to their house and a one-hour showing would become a three-hour showing.”

With only so much of herself to go around, Marvel opened the Truth & Style boutique, where her friends, community members, and customers visit her, whether it’s to buy jewelry and clothes or just to chat.

While she didn’t feel quite ready to become a brick-and-mortar business owner, she took the leap anyway. More than a year after opening her doors, that leap of faith has paid off.

Upon entering Truth & Style, the boutique shines back at you. There’s jewelry on all sides, the majority of which is gold-laminated. Marvel notes that she appreciates gold for its ability to go with everything, serve both classy and trendy looks, and is suitable to wear during any season.

Outside of jewelry, Marvel aims to become known for her year-round swimsuit collection, specifically colorful and showstopping Colombian swimwear, made to flatter real women’s bodies with high waists and statement straps. She says, “When you wear these suits, people are going to ask you, ‘Where did you get your bathing suit?’”

Plus, Marvel carries Colombian shapewear known to the Hispanic community as fajas, which—when worn for a handful of hours daily—can give you a curvier shape over time. In short, her boutique has everything anyone could need to feel feminine and stylish.

Seeing Marvel in action makes it clear that connecting with others and helping them find their style is her calling. Back in the Dominican Republic at age 14, her first job was at a boutique. When she moved to America, she worked for Kohl’s, going above and beyond her duties in merchandising. Now, with a place of her own where she can be surrounded by pearls, gold, dresses, and accessories, it has all come full circle.

In the summer season, visitors to Truth & Style can expect anklets, hoops, layering necklaces, and statement bangles, among other beautifying accessories. Even as the weather turns cold, folks in and around Lancaster can try on swimsuits and cover-ups for their honeymoons, cruises, and getaways. Plus, the clothing and accessories the boutique offers stay fun and colorful throughout the year, allowing anyone to spice up their wardrobe to match their personality.

As someone who forged her own path toward entrepreneurship, Marvel wants others like her to know one thing: “You can do it all.” And, as she proves, you can look good doing it, too.

Skin Care Secrets: Clean, Screen, and Shade

BY DEBORAH LYNCH

The skin care industry is big business. Glossy magazine ads, television commercials, Instagram reels, TikTok hacks, and friends encourage us to try everything from over-thecounter pharmacy products, to boutique and spa serums and creams, to luxury labels, to powders and pastes created from our gardens and refrigerators to nourish our skin.

Add to that a burgeoning esthetic skin care niche market and celebrities who swear by their injections, needling, abrasions, and other procedures, and it becomes baffling for average people to determine how to best care for their skin.

With the July sun beating down on us, it is the perfect time to consider whether your skin care regimen is enough to keep your skin healthy and glowing, not just for the short term, but for life.

Dr. Charlene Lam, Vice Chair of Community Health and Associate Professor of Dermatology at Penn State Health Dermatology and Dr. Payvand Kamrani, a third-year dermatology resident at Penn State Health, emphasize not only sunscreen to protect skin all year round, but also doing everything possible to avoid exposure to the sun. They also provide other suggestions for ultimate skin care.

1. Throw shade to the sun

Stay out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and when direct sunlight cannot be avoided, wear wide-brimmed hats to protect face and possibly chest and shoulders. Also consider clothing with built-in UPF to protect other parts of the body. Every other area of uncovered skin should be protected with at least a 30 SPF sunscreen– especially the neck, ears, and face. And don’t forget to protect lips with an SPF product.

2. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!

Even on days spent inside, an SPF 30 or higher is recommended since sun can also come through windows and clouds. Lightweight formulas and powders are available. Expensive sunscreens are not necessary. Doctors say finding one you will use liberally–at least a shotglassful (or 1 ounce) applied every two hours–is key. Using a daily moisturizer that includes an SPF helps to make this a regular part of daily skin care.

“UV rays and smoking are major ways to damage the skin and cause premature aging. Sunscreen and sun avoidance can help mitigate these risks,” Kamrani said, adding that “other overthe-counter Vitamin C serums can provide additional antioxidants.”

Although the FDA is currently reviewing some sunscreen ingredients for their environmental impacts and absorption, it stresses that sunscreen is safe and urges people to continue to use sunscreen whenever exposed to sun. For those with sensitive skin or those who worry about chemical absorption in sunscreen, Kamrani suggests instead using a sunscreen with physical blockers that sit on the surface of the skin and deflect UV rays, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association says sunscreen protects skin from the sun. Applying it will help to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer; prevent sunburn; decrease signs of early aging like wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin; stop existing melasma from darkening and new patches from appearing; and reduce risk of dark spots appearing when acne, psoriasis, or other skin conditions clear.

3. Know your skin

Skin products should be based on skin type and skin goals, which can be identified by a dermatologist or licensed esthetician. Is your skin sensitive, normal, dry, oily, or combination? Some products might have salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are better for those with acne.

The wide array of companies and products available can be overwhelming. Kamrani said that most brands available in pharmacies (like Cetaphil, CeraVe, or La Roche-Posay) have completed rigorous clinical trials and are therefore safe to use.

4. Devote time to daily skin care

Cleanse morning and night: Lam recommends washing one’s face with a gentle fragrance-free skin cleanser. Shian Wing, director of The Spa at the Hotel Hershey, says doing this twice daily removes dirt, make-up, and excess lipids without damaging the skin barrier. Following cleansing with a skin tonic refreshes the skin.

Apply creams:

After cleansing, Wing also suggests applying an eye cream or serum around eye areas to reduce fine lines, puffiness, and wrinkles. Then, moisturize and hydrate skin with a face cream or serum containing key ingredients including natural oils, vitamins, and antioxidants to maintain and increase skin moisture, nourish, and balance the skin. Vitamin C serums in the morning work as antioxidants. At night, retinol cream can be used for an anti-aging effect. It requires routine use.

Exfoliate:

Dermatologists do not recommend regular exfoliation, which can cause irritation. Instead, they recommend retinol cream that can turn over skin cells faster and build up collagen, therefore rejuvenating the skin.

“The simpler a routine is, the better compliance, the better results you will get,” Lam says.

5. Check your skin regularly

Because one in five Americans develop skin cancer, The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends regular skin checks for new or suspicious spots and moles that change, itch, or bleed. Skin cancer is highly treatable—the survival rate is 98 percent—if detected and treated early.

“For any dark spot, we talk about the ABCDEs of melanoma,” Lam said. This stands for: A: Asymmetry, an odd shape; B: Borders that are jagged; C: Color, dark black, gray, purple, or bleeding; D: Diameter, anything bigger than tip of pencil eraser, 6 mm; E: Evolving, if it’s changing at all. If any of these are noted, a physician should be contacted.

Lam also says to have someone check your back for spots, and to photograph concerning spots to help monitor all skin for signs of change.

6. Eat well

A good diet can help skin to heal from within, Wing says. Greens and a healthy diet help to nourish healthy skin, too. Additionally, hydrating inside and out benefits our skin. Water can help to eliminate toxins and promote hydration, Wing said.

While a healthy, balanced diet is important for many reasons, dermatologists typically don’t recommend specific diets when addressing skin care.

7. Hit the sheets

They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing! Getting a good night’s sleep will help to rejuvenate and repair the skin while keeping it healthy, Wing said.

Alternatively, Kamrani notes that too little sleep can exacerbate dark circles around the eyelids.

8. Pamper with care

As long as a qualified professional is performing treatments, Wing recommends skin treatments, which she says can make skin feel softer and smoother. Wing says facials are not only a wonderful way to relax, but that they also can help with skin cell renewal, increased circulation, and lymphatic drainage, all of which help to reduce puffiness and promote optimal skin health. She said they help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, increase firmness, smooth and even tone and skin texture, reduce enlarged pores, brighten complexion, and minimize brown spots.

9. Weigh benefits of costly treatments

While cosmetic treatments might have benefits, they might also have risks, and none of these treatments are necessary, Lam says. Risks include scarring and infection. If someone decides to pursue treatments, Lam recommends using board-certified physicians who understand skin and facial shape and proportions and who can handle potential side effects.

Fillers:

Neuromodulators such as Botox and fillers can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and restore a more youthful appearance.

Chemical peels and micro-needling: These can help with hyperpigmentation, skin texture changes, and fine lines, but again risks should be considered.

HOORAY FOR BEIGNETS

Go behind the scenes with the Lancaster Beignet Company. Read more on page 20.

Eat & Drink

Hooray for Beignets

BY KAREN HENDRICKS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KARLO GESNER

Iconic flavors, linked to their cities or regions, are on many travelers’ to-do lists: bagels in the Big Apple, lobster in Maine, soft pretzels and cheesesteaks in Philly, Key Lime pie in south Florida, and beignets in New Orleans.

But now, thanks to Lancaster Beignet Company, you can bite into a pillowy soft beignet, close your eyes—and even though you’re in downtown Lancaster—the taste transports you straight to Louisiana.

Beignet Backstory

“Beignets have always been part of my life,” says Collin Dawkins, 28, of Lancaster. Collin and his wife Annie are high school sweethearts who grew up in nearby Chester County, then attended Millersville University together. But Collin basically has beignets in his bloodlines.

“My great-grandparents, and now grandparents, live in southern Mississippi, so we would pack up the entire family and drive down, every summer of my life,” Collin explains. “During our visits, we’d always go to New Orleans and visit Café Du Monde for beignets.”

The family replicated the recipe, putting that French Quarter flair right into their home kitchens. And it’s that time-tested, traditional family recipe that’s now the star of the menu at Lancaster Beignet Company. Collin and Annie opened the doors to the Prince Street shop last fall, and they’ve been blown away by the response.

“There are way more people than we thought with connections to New Orleans— transplants, or people who have visited and can’t find beignets anywhere else,” says Collin.

For the uninitiated, how would Collin describe a beignet?

First, it’s pronounced “ben-YAY.”

“It’s a really fluffy piece of fried dough—light and pillowy,” Collin describes. “People might know about fastnachts around here—it’s the same concept, but a little lighter, covered with powdered sugar sifted on top.”

And a little confectioner’s sugar goes a long way. The shop regularly uses 50 pounds of the sweet stuff weekly. On the busiest days, like Saturdays, Lancaster Beignet Company serves up 800 of the warm tasty treats.

The menu—coffees and beignets—is short and sweet with a spin.

“We make a beignet breakfast sandwich with a funny combination of sauces—mayo, mustard and sriracha,” says Collin. “It’s this weird combination that turns out to be really good with the beignets, bacon, egg, and cheese.”

There’s also a BBLT—beignet, bacon, lettuce, and tomato— sandwich option for lunch.

Beignets and Brew

Visitors can even pair their beignets with the most classic New Orleans brew—Café Du Monde’s Coffee and Chicory, served in the traditional way—au lait, mixed half and half with hot milk. That makes it easy to experience the Big Easy’s traditional duo.

“Dunking a beignet is the tradition,” says Collin.

But there are local, fairtrade options too. Lancaster Coffee Roasters’ drip coffee is also on the menu, along with espresso hailing from a small Coatesville-based company.

And to mix things up, there’s one more beverage—actually a mix— available at Lancaster Beignet Company. And like beignets, it’s associated with mornings. Sunday’s Bloody Mary Mix, available by the jar, was actually the entrepreneurial couple’s first foodie foray.

“Annie and I perfected the recipe right before 2020, and we launched it in 2020—in Lancaster and online—which turned out to be a good time for e-commerce [amid the pandemic],” Collin says.

Not only is Sunday’s Bloody Mary Mix available at numerous Lancaster hot spots including Tellus 360, but it’s now award-winning—having earned recognition in national bloody Mary mix competitions over the past three years.

Sweet Small Business Success

The Dawkins’ small business success, as in their marriage, builds upon each other’s strengths. He focuses on marketing, events, partnerships, efficiency, and big picture planning while she concentrates on leading, hiring, and building their Lancaster Beignet Company team—all while she also works as a massage therapist.

“Knowing each other really well is a huge factor. The most important thing is knowing we’re on the same team,” says Collin.

He sees big opportunities for their beignets—an additional location, online ordering, or even a dry beignet mix. They’re all ingredients in the Dawkins’ recipe for future success, which builds on Collin’s family history.

“Growing up, Café Du Monde beignets were the best thing in the world, so it’s hard to compete with that memory,” says Collin, “but we were just at Café Du Monde a little less than a year ago. We tried them and some other beignet spots—and obviously I’m biased—but I think ours holds up.”

So that begs the question: Is there ever too much of the good thing? Does he ever get tired of beignets?

“I wouldn’t say I’m tired of them—they’re still great,” says Collin, “but I try to hold off, so they’re still a treat.”

Beat the Heat

WITH THESE REFRESHING SMOOTHIE RECIPES

RECIPES AND

BY A-YO KITCHEN

PEANUT BUTTER BANANA SMOOTHIES

The perfect easy smoothie recipe to start your day! Packed with protein and lots of nutrients that will give you a morning boost, this delicious smoothie is sure to be a breakfast favorite!

2 bananas

½ cup frozen chopped spinach

2 Tbsp peanut butter (can substitute with other nut butters or PB powder for less calories)

1½ cups milk of choice

1 scoop collagen powder

½ cup plain Greek yogurt

1 Tbsp chia seeds

1 ½ cups ice

Pinch of salt (optional)

Garnishes

Drizzle of peanut butter

Slices of banana

Chia seeds

Instructions

1. This makes enough for four smoothies. If you only want two, halve the recipe.

2. Place everything in a blender, and puree until smooth.

3. Serve immediately, and garnish.

Tip

• Try replacing Greek yogurt with nonfat cottage cheese for even more protein and less fat.

• If you’re looking for more protein, you can add a scoop of protein powder.

Alysha Yoder is the photographer, food stylist, blogger, and recipe developer behind A-Yo Kitchen. With a passion for all things food, many of her recipes are inspired by her worldly travels, her many cooking classes abroad, and all the veggies and fruits her home gardens produce. She has been a photographer for 15+ years and previously worked in the corporate food sector for almost 10. She now is a small business owner running her studio, A-Yo Kitchen, out of York, PA, where she serves not only local clients, but those worldwide as well. ayokitchen.com, ayokitchen@gmail.com, @ayokitchen

PHOTOGRAPHY

WATERMELON LIME SNOW

The perfect treat is healthy and fresh. This light dessert is great to enjoy on warm days, and it takes less than 15 minutes of prep work!

1/2 large seedless watermelon

1/2 cup of lime juice, about 5-6 limes

1/4 cup of honey

Optional Garnishes: Mint garnish, lime wedges or zest, watermelon wedge

Instructions

1. Cut watermelon, remove the rind, then cut everything into cubes. Pick out any seeds that are still in watermelon, and separate into a large gallon bag.

2. Place in the freezer overnight or until frozen solid.

3. Mix together lime juice and honey.

4. Place frozen watermelon cubes and 1/2 the honey lime mixture in a blender. If you don’t have a blender that makes ‘snow,’ you may have to add some water to get the right texture.

5. Blend into a snow-like consistency, making sure to scrape down the sides.

6. Quickly place snow in serving dishes. Drizzle with remaining honey lime mixture, and garnish with mint. Enjoy!

Tip

• For an easy adult version, you can add wine, tequila, or rum to the blender!

UNICORN SMOOTHIE BOWLS

Makes 4 smoothie bowls or two very large smoothie bowls

The whole family can enjoy this kid friendly breakfast. While they’re drawing unicorn faces, you can blend a fun, refreshing smoothie. Everyone gets to customize their bowl decorations, too!

For the Smoothie

6 frozen bananas

1 non-frozen banana and 4 strawberries for ‘ears’ and ‘horn’

11/2 cups frozen raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries (we used raspberries and blackberries)

1 tsp powdered spirulina powder

1/2 cup milk of your choice

Optional Decorations: Toasted or shredded coconut, cacao nibs, chia seeds, mini chocolate chips, bee pollen, hemp seeds, chopped fruit

Non-food Items: toothpicks, a plastic gallon bag (or piping bag), a dry erase marker, and scissors

Instructions

1. First, you’ll have to freeze the bananas and berries the night before; these are best if the fruits are really frozen solid.

2. Get 4 plain bowls. With the dry erase marker, draw unicorn eyes and mouth. Once done, the marker will rub right off the bowl!

3. Next, prep your unicorn "ears" and "horn" before you start the rest to avoid melting! To make "ears" cut banana pieces at a thin diagonal, then cut one of the strawberries into this piece vertically, and place on the bottom of your banana pieces.

4. For the "horns" cut strawberries into quarters long ways, place the pointed tip on the top of the toothpick, and then add more strawberry pieces until you’ve created a horn. Set aside.

5. Put all of your frozen bananas and milk in the food processor, and blend until smooth. If the banana mixture is too thick, slowly add more milk until you get a good consistency.

Tip

• For easy clean-up, you can also do this on paper bowls with a sharpie!

• For different banana smoothie colors, try adding turmeric for yellow, powdered spinach for green, or mango for orange!

6. Once you’ve achieved a good creamy texture (should look like frozen yogurt), remove about 2/3 of your banana mixture from the food processor, and place in the bowl.

7. To serve, add your powder spirulina, and mix until well combined.

8. In a blender with the remaining bananas, add frozen berries, and blend until smooth.

9. Now in a gallon bag or piping bag, spoon in berry banana mixture on one side of the bag, then spoon the blue spirulina mixture on top of the berry mixture. Seal the top of the bag, and snip off a tiny corner on the bottom of the bag. In a circular motion, pipe the mixture into your decorated unicorn bowls (like you’re swirling soft serve ice cream into a cone).

10. Once you’ve filled your bowls, place two ears on the back of the bowl, the horn in the middle of the ears, and then make your mane out of garnishes! Grab a spoon, and enjoy!

HOT

BY MADDY PONTZ

The dog days of summer are here. With seemingly endless warm weather and long sunshine hours comes a myriad of opportunities for fun and going out and about. Whether you’re looking for big adventures or simply a moment to relax under the stars, Lancaster has plenty to offer this summer—so head out and make the most of this beautiful season!

round and round. Is it even truly summer without a from July 22-29 this year, while the FAIR will offer one last hurrah before school starts again, running from August 21-26.

LEBANONAREAFAIR.COM

ETOWNFAIR.COM

COOL DOWNSweet treat WITH A

Can anything taste as truly delicious as a cold, sweet treat on a truly sweltering day? There’s a reason that the line at SPLITS & GIGGLES winds down W Lemon Street on every warm evening! With lots of flavor options and delicious toppings, their walk-up window and patio seating are the perfect destination to cool

Max & Go

For over-the-top decadent milkshakes, head over to in Richmond Square. From fun flavors like cookies and cream and peanut butter cup, to the classics (vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry!), they have it all. Prefer a float? Just pick your favorite soda and pour it over their delicious vanilla, chocolate, or twist soft serve.

Levengoods of Lancaster

Want your frosty treat to have a kick? Stop by LEVENGOODS OF for a slushie made from their signature hard cider. While you’re there, you could also give any of their canned or on-tap ciders a try. Their tasting room on W Walnut Street in downtown Lancaster is a great place to sit and chill for a while.

The Grundy Observatory at Franklin & Marshall College

THE GRUNDY OBSERVATORY AT FRANKLIN & MARSHALL COLLEGE public on the third Monday of each month. Participants can look to the skies through the observatory’s 1884 vintage 11-inch Alvan Clark refracting telescope and their 16-inch Boller & Chivens classical Cassegrain reflecting telescope.

FANDM.EDU/PHYSICS/GRUNDY-OBSERVATORY-AND-PUBLIC-OBSERVING

DRINKSView WITH A

‘Tis the season for rooftop bars and restaurants! Luckily for us, downtown Lancaster offers a few great options. Start your night off right by heading to THE EXCHANGE for breathtaking panoramic views, lounge seating, and fire pits. TELLUS 360 offers chill vibes on their green roof. Enjoy beautiful scenery and a chic atmosphere at ALTANA ROOFTOP LOUNGE . Of course, all three spots offer delicious food and drinks.

ENTERTAINMENT Al Fresco

Make the most of these warm nights, and attend a show outdoors. PENN CINEMA’S POPULAR DRIVE-IN is back again this year with film options to please any cinephile—from classics like Back to the Future and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, to fan favorites like Mamma Mia! and Shrek. Just drive in, tune your radio, and feel yourself being For those looking to enjoy live entertainment, the LONG’S PARK is back for its 61st year! Enjoy folk, jazz, bluegrass, rock, and more in the Long’s Park amphitheater this summer. And, of course, 4th of July in Lancaster County wouldn’t be complete without the park’s annual celebration. This year, attend on Sunday, July 2 for a concert from The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own” and a fireworks display.

Best Of LANCASTER

Shopping, Dining, Real Estate, Dental, Pet Groomers, and More—You voted, and here are this year’s Best of Lancaster Winners!

BY THERESA STODDARD

2 0 2 3

Best Indian Restaurant

HIMALAYAN CURRY & GRILL

Serving up traditional Indian and Nepalese fare, Himalayan Curry & Grill has consistently offered the best and most authentic of these dishes. Whether you order vegetable coconut curry or chicken tandoori, you can't go wrong and won’t be disappointed with the flavors packed into each of their entrees.

22 E Orange St, Lancaster, PA

himalayanlancaster.com

ASIAN RESTAURANT

Rice & Noodles

BAR FOOD

American Bar & Grill

BBQ

Mission BBQ

BREWERY

Mad Chef Craft Brewing

BRUNCH

Shot & Bottle

BURGER

Cabalar Meat Co.

BUSINESS LUNCH SPOT

Plough

CANDY

Evans Candy

CARIBBEAN RESTAURANT

Caribbean Wave

COCKTAILS

Horse Inn

COFFEE SHOP

Mean Cup

COMFORT FOOD

Blazin' J's

CUPCAKE

Lancaster Cupcake

DISTILLERY

Thistle Finch Distillery

DOUGHNUTS

Beiler's Doughnuts

EMPANADAS

Empanada Gourmet

FINE DINING

Belvedere Inn

FOOD TRUCK

Blazin' J's

FRIES

Blazin' J's

HAPPY HOUR SPOT

Annie Bailey's Irish

Public House

Best Caterer CRACKED PEPPER CATERING

Specializing in events and weddings in Lancaster and the surrounding regions, Cracked Pepper gets the win for best caterer in Lancaster! As a caterer, they pride themselves on not only serving the best tasting food, but also serving the most beautifully presented food. Cracked Pepper’s food options and presentation elevate any social gathering or event.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CRACKED PEPPER CATERING

ACCOUNTING SERVICES

Belmoore Financial Solutions

ADULT CONTINUING EDUCATION

Cutting Edge

Barber Academy

BANKING INSTITUTION

Fulton Bank

CAR WASH/DETAILING SERVICE

Premium Finish

CAR DEALERSHIP

Jones Honda

CREDIT UNION

Members 1st Federal

Credit Union

DAY CARE CENTER

Owl Hill Learning

EMPLOYMENT AGENCY

TriStarr Staffing

FLORIST

Petals with Style

FUNERAL SERVICES

Charles F. Snyder

Funeral Home & Crematory

GOLF COURSE

Lancaster Country Club

INSURANCE AGENCY

Hinkle Insurance Agency

LAW FIRM

Gibbel, Kraybill & Hess

SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

Willow Valley Communities

TRAVEL AGENCY

Dream Makers

Vacation Services

VET

Neffsville Veterinary Clinic

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Loeffler Financial Group

Best Pet Groomer A POOCH PARLOR

A Pooch Parlor keeps your pets looking their best with their full service grooming salon. Services for your pet include full groom, partial groom, and a la carte services like nail clipping and teeth brushing. Setting them apart from some of their competitors, A Pooch Parlor also offers unique toys and accessories for your pets.

1200 Corporate Blvd, Lancaster, PA apoochparlor.com

APPLIANCES

Martin Appliance

ARCHITECT

Yohe Architecture + Design

CABINETRY

Blue Rock Cabinets

CARPET & FLOORING

Indoor City

COMMERCIAL & HOME AUTOMATION

B&B Integrations

DECKS

Stumps

DOORS AND WINDOWS

Hershey Door Services

FURNITURE

Interiors Home

Best Landscaping J. HUBLER LANDSCAPING

Although J. Hubler Landscaping hails from Elizabethtown in Lancaster County, they also serve all of the Susquehanna Valley. Offering commercial, residential, excavating, and snow removal services, J. Hubler can meet any of your outdoor maintenance or project needs.

202 Ridgeview Rd, Elizabethtown, PA jhubler.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF J. HUBLER LANDSCAPING

INTERIOR DESIGN

Henrietta Heilser

Interiors

MORTGAGE SERVICES

Andy Cardina

Garman Builders

PAINTING SERVICES

Top Colors LLC

PEST CONTROL

Akita Pest Control

POOLS & SPAS

Crystal Pools

PLUMBING

Lancaster Plumbing and Heating, Cooling & Electrical

REALTOR

Corey Thudium

REMODELING

McLennan Contracting

ROOFING

Greenawalt Roofing

ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE SPECIALIST

The Way Acupuncture & Healing Arts

BARBERSHOP

Baron Barbers

BOUTIQUE FITNESS CLASSES

Tread House

BROW AND LASH SERVICES

Emily Douglass

CANCER HOSPITAL/INSTITUTE

Ann B Barshinger

Cancer Institute

CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES

Rose City Sport & Spine

COSMETIC ENHANCEMENT CENTER

Cameo

COUNSELING/THERAPY SERVICES

Move Forward

DENTIST

Smilebuilderz

FACIAL

Omni Beauty

GYM/FITNESS CENTER

Tread House

HEALTH NETWORK

Penn Medicine Lancaster

General Health

INFERTILITY SPECIALIST

Shady Grove Fertility

MASSAGE

Lititz Ambrosia

Massage

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHARLEE SALON

Best Makeup Artistry & Salon THE CHARLEE SALON

Located in the heart of downtown Lancaster, The Charlee offers bookings for wedding makeup, special occasions, and one-on-one lessons. As more than just a makeup studio, they also offer services for hair styling, color, lashes, waxing, and more. Check them out for your next makeover or special occasion styling.

311 E Orange St, Lancaster, PA thecharleesalon.com

NAIL SALON

Maddie Does Manis

OPTOMETRIST

Eye Associates of Lancaster, LTD

ORTHODONTIST

LOA Orthodontics

ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS MEDICINE

Orthopedic Associates of Lancaster

PEDIATRIC PRACTICE

Roseville Pediatrics

PHYSICAL REHAB/THERAPY SERVICES

Quest Movement

BEAUTY/COSMETIC RETAIL

Ulta

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

In White

CHILDREN'S BOUTIQUE

BellaBoo

CONSIGNMENT/VINTAGE

Ooh La La

Consignment

FOODIE SHOP

Zest!

GIFT SHOP

The Glazing Sun

GROCERY STORE

Wegmans

JEWELER

Brent L. Miller

MEN'S CLOTHING

Filling's

VENDOR MARKET

Expressive Avenue

WOMEN'S CLOTHING

Nicole Taylor Boutique

Best New Business RIDE + GRIND

PRIMARY CARE PRACTICE

Penn State Health Lime

Spring Outpatient Care

SPA

Blossom Med Spa

TATTOO STUDIO

Dreams Collide Tattoo

YOGA STUDIO

West End Yoga

WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM

BeBalanced

Ride + Grind brings a new business to Lancaster as well as a new concept. At their studio just off of Oregon Pk, you can enjoy a great workout in a rhythmic spin class, then wrap-up your visit with a beverage at their coffee smoothie bar. Memberships and a la carte options are available.

483 Royer Dr, Lancaster, PA moorefit.net

Best Bed & Breakfast or Inn THE HISTORIC SMITHTON INN

Surrounded by Lancaster County farmland, The Historic Smithton Inn offers beautiful scenery to go along with their luxurious accommodations. Modern amenities include private bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs, free WiFi, and TV. Every morning guests are served a farm-to-table breakfast, and for evening entertainment, guests are welcome to visit the onsite wine bar with live music.

900 W Main St, Ephrata, PA historicsmithtoninn.com

ART GALLERY

Red Raven

Art Company

DJ Ross Productions

EVENT DÉCOR COMPANY

Party Belles

EVENT PLANNER

Simple Soirée

EVENT VENUE

Melhorn Manor

HOTEL

Lancaster Arts Hotel

INSTAGRAM FEED

Lumi Lash Lounge

INTERACTIVE

ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION

Decades

LOCAL BAND/MUSICIAN

Central City

Orchestra

LOCAL TV PERSONALITY

Joe Calhoun

PHOTOGRAPHER (COMMERCIAL)

Obsidian Studios

PHOTOGRAPHER (WEDDING)

Lauren E. Bliss

Photography

PHOTO BOOTH COMPANY

Ross Productions

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE HISTORIC SMITHTON INN

SPONSORS

Young Professionals

LIVE, WORK, AND PLAY IN HARRISBURG

PROMOTING RACIAL EQUITY AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH COMMUNITY

Harrisburg Young Professionals is a group of young, active, civicminded professionals who have a clear vision of Harrisburg’s future as a great place to live, work, and play. We are part of a movement that is breathing new life into urban areas and lessening the negative impact of suburban sprawl. We also work to prevent the migration of educated young people to larger cities and encourage those who have left to return to the Central Pennsylvania region.

2601 N Front St, Ste 200 Harrisburg, PA 17110

717-257-0406

HYP.ORG

Young Professionals of Color - Greater Harrisburg (YPOC) was founded after seeing a need for better retention, representation, and community to enrich the lives of the diverse workers across the capitol region. With consistent growth since our founding, we strive to make a positive impact with programs such as AdoptA-Classroom, JuneteenthHBG, Annual Gala, and more. Our members include students and individuals in various professions. Whatever your niche, we want you to share it with us!

315 S Front St Harrisburg, PA 17104

717-508-7088

YPOC.ORG

Showcasing a few of the rockstars making moves, driving change, and crushing the career game throughout the Susquehanna Valley.

Life changing is... having a trusted partner

“The first thing I want my patients to know is that I am there for them. I can guarantee that.”

- Lori, RN Professional Care Manager

What’s your Life Lived Forward?

Kay Shanaman has a zest for life. She has always been engaged in her community and open to new experiences. At Willow Valley Communities, she’s found plenty of ways to continue her active lifestyle. “Whatever you’re looking for, it’s here,” says Kay.

With more than 100 clubs, classes, and groups to join, Kay has found easy connections over shared interests with her neighbors. Whether it’s ballroom dancing or the computer club, the possibilities for camaraderie and a happy, healthy life are nearly endless.

With the details taken care of, residents like Kay can make each day exactly what they choose. “This is your life,” she says, “and you create your own reality.”

Find your Life Lived Forward.

Explore Willow Valley Communities today.

800.770.5445 | WillowValleyCommunities.org | Lancaster, PA